Sauconfest '90 Loses $30,000 Organizers Put Plans For '91 On Hold Until All Bills Are Paid

August 22, 1990|by TAD MILLER, The Morning Call

Last night's report of an approximate $30,000 shortfall puts another Sauconfest somewhat in peril, but gives organizers incentives for creative fund-raising to save the festival.

Despite a somber reaction to the news, the board expressed enthusiasm for working to solve the problem and displayed an intense interest in holding Sauconfest 1991.

Sauconfest board members met last night for a review of the festival held Aug. 9-12 at Lower Saucon Town Hall. The distressing news came almost immediately when it was reported that $146,000 in expenses outweighed the income of $116,000, for a $30,000 loss.

"In my opinion, it doesn't make sense to plan on 1991 until we pay these bills for 1990," said dejected Chairman Barry Gebhart.

"There's no sugar daddy out there in the community," Gebhart said. He asked for creative ideas to raise the money and asked the board to meet again soon to attempt to solve the shortfall so that the fate of a Sauconfest 1991 will be known.

Bad weather has hit the festival hard both years, with frequent rain four out of seven days and some rain an additional two days. The festival in its first year lost $17,000, which was underwritten by Lower Saucon Township. Township Council approved the donation because potential Sauconfest profits would have benefited township historical and recreational programs.

Some board members noted that Bethlehem's Musikfest lost money in its first few years, but that may be of little consequence unless Sauconfest organizers can raise funds or find backing similar to last year's council donation.

Organizers reported many good comments from those in attendance, such as the quality and quantity of music, good food, the attractiveness of the grounds and the proximity of all activities. But Gebhart said that the bottom line is that Sauconfest is a business and must at least break even to remain viable.

"There's no '91 until we deal with the $30,000 of '90," Gebhart said. "That's what's holding us back. There were a lot of smiles, but we've got to get our act together on how to make money."

Although Gebhart meant the comment as a last resort, he noted that bankruptcy is undesirable but could become a necessary option.

Gebhart continued the meeting, asking for suggestions to improve the festival if the financial problems for 1990 can be solved.

Many noted that planning was started too late and that a committee system might be a more efficient use of time.

"We're in our sophomore slump," Gebhart observed. "We're just like a ballplayer that has a bad year after a good start. This will push us to go out for a third year."

Specifically, it was decided to begin immediately lining up sponsors and entertainment if the 1990 bills are paid. Some food vendors may be brought closer to the entertainment near the softball field and some activities may be shifted for better efficiency and the exposure of all vendors. Organizers also will examine beginning the entertainment later in the day and charging a fee for all entering the grounds and a reservation charge for prime seats for the largest acts.

The conclusion was that many things were done right but should be fine-tuned.

Any organizations or individuals willing to contribute should contact Town Hall at 865-3291 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays.